Employee Spotlight: Michell Velez
At North Hudson Sewerage Authority, we are proud to recognize the dedication and achievements of our employees. Today, we shine the spotlight on Michell Velez, our Supervisor of Operations at the Wastewater Treatment Facility in West New York, NJ.
Michell's Journey
Michell began her career in 2015 with CH2M in Hoboken, NJ, as an Operator. Demonstrating a strong commitment to her role, she cross-trained in the laboratory and gained invaluable experience. In 2017, Michell transferred to Westerly, RI, where she served as a Laboratory Technician and Industrial Pretreatment Coordinator. By 2020, she returned to Hoboken and was promoted to her current position as Supervisor of Operations. Michell now oversees the development and coordination of processes and trainings for eight operators.
Educational Background
Michell is a graduate of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering. During her time at NJIT, she joined the Air Force Reserve Officer’s Training Corps, obtaining a degree in Aerospace Studies.
Military Service
In 2018, Michell commissioned as a First Lieutenant (1st Lt) into the Connecticut Air National Guard (CTANG) and currently serves as the Bioenvironmental Engineer Officer in Charge, overseeing five enlisted personnel. She was promoted to Captain (Capt) and is working towards the rank of Major (Maj). Capt Velez has deployed three times to various regions including Africa, Europe, and Central command, commanding the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) team during Operation Juniper Shield, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her leadership was instrumental in her team’s selection as Squadron Team of the Quarter, culminating in her earning the Medical Group Company Grade Officer Captain of the Year 2023.
Personal Life
Outside of her professional life, Michell enjoys spending time with her German Shepherd, Maya Papaya. She also loves helping people, hiking, biking, swimming, playing soccer, and traveling the world.
We are honored to have Michell as part of our team at the North Hudson Sewerage Authority. Her dedication and hard work are truly inspiring.